President Bola Tinubu has thrown his weight behind the Super Falcons ahead of their highly anticipated clash with host nation Morocco in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), urging the team to finish strong and secure their 10th continental title.
In a personal statement released on Saturday, Tinubu expressed pride in the team’s performance and spirit throughout the tournament.
“You will finish strong by the Grace of God. Go for the tenth! Bring the trophy home. Your fellow countrymen and women, young and old, are rooting for you,” the President said. “I look forward to receiving the team, the trophy, and the officials in Abuja.”
Highlighting the Super Falcons’ journey in the competition, Tinubu praised their resilience, determination, and unity. “Tonight, you stand at the cusp of history as you face the host nation, Morocco. Your performance at this tournament over the past three weeks has been awe-inspiring. You have represented our country with pride, honour, and strength,” he said.
Tinubu hails Super Falcons sportmanship
The President also lauded the Super Falcons’ sportsmanship, making specific reference to their compassionate gesture toward injured South African player Gabriela Salgado after the semi-final match.
“In the pitch and off the pitch, you have demonstrated true sportsmanship. I was delighted to see photographs of your visit to the injured Gabriela Salgado of South Africa’s Banyana Banyana. That simple act of compassion reflects our shared humanity, empathy, and sisterly affection, which we Africans hold in high regard,” Tinubu noted.
He further commended the team’s flawless run to the final, describing them as the pride of the nation.
“If statistics alone win matches, you are already champions. Unbeaten in the group stages, victorious in the knockout rounds, and conceding only a goal in the semi-finals. Apart from this, you have emerged triumphant in all your previous nine finals,” he stated.
Promising full government backing, Tinubu assured the Super Falcons of the support of over 200 million Nigerians. “On behalf of a grateful nation, we are rooting for you and praying for your resounding success tonight, as you strive to achieve the crowning accomplishment of lifting a record 10th continental title.”
To further demonstrate the administration’s support, Tinubu said he had dispatched a high-powered delegation to the Rabat stadium. The team includes the Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite; Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim; and Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, among others.
He also extended his gratitude to the players’ families, coaching crew, Nigerian fans in Morocco, the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, and the Nigerian Mission in Morocco for their unwavering encouragement throughout the tournament.
